Thoracoscopic Diaphragmatic Repair for Refractory Hepatic Hydrothorax: Application of Pleural Flap and Mesh Onlay Reinforcement

Abstract

Background: Management of hepatic hydrothorax is difficult, and no radical treatment has been established. Based on accumulating evidence that diaphragmatic defects contribute to hepatic hydrothorax, we developed a diaphragmatic repair method for the management of this complex condition. Methods: From October 2003 to March 2005, 10 patients (age, 32 - 83 years; 6 men and 4 women) with refractory hepatic hydrothorax (Child-Pugh class B - C) underwent thoracoscopic pleura (n = 7) or mesh (n = 3) onlay reinforcement to repair the diaphragmatic defects on which this study focuses, and all patients have since been under follow-up in a prospective observation study. Results: After a mean of 7.7 months of follow-up examinations, no local recurrence occurred in all patients. Two patients died of hemorrhage from esophageal varices two months postoperatively. All patients had a better postoperative pulmonary function. Conclusion: The use of pleura and mesh onlay reinforcement of the diaphragm is an encouraging treatment for refractory hepatic hydrothorax.

Key words

Hepatic hydrothorax - diaphragmatic defect - thoracoscopy

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